Eighth Staff Talks Boost India-Oman Naval Ties in Indian Ocean

New Delhi, October 29: India and Oman have strengthened their naval partnership with the eighth round of staff talks held in New Delhi. The discussions addressed common maritime security challenges and sought to build a more coordinated approach to operations in the Indian Ocean region.

The talks were conducted on October 27 and 28. The Indian Navy made the development public on Thursday, saying the dialogue was aimed at boosting cooperation between the two forces and improving their collective ability to handle shared threats at sea.

The meeting was co-chaired by Commodore Karthik Shrimal, Commodore (FC), representing the Indian Navy, and Commodore Ahmed Juma Saleem Al Khatri, Director General (Operations and Planning), representing the Royal Navy of Oman.

Both delegations deliberated on expanding joint operational activities and enhancing communication at the operational level. Training initiatives and the faster, more reliable exchange of important information were also key points of discussion.

Hydrographic survey collaboration emerged as a major focus. Survey operations are vital for mapping maritime areas and supporting naval activity. Greater cooperation in this domain may help the two navies coordinate more effectively.

The eighth round of staff talks reinforced regular defence dialogue and naval cooperation. Participants looked at potential areas of collaboration, including training, information sharing and joint activities.

The engagement marks another step in the growing friendship and maritime partnership between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.